News Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu Celebrates Deebavali In Grand Style Despite Restrictions And Opposition From Dravidianist Parties

November 4, 2024
The Commune

This Deebavali, Tamil Nadu witnessed an enthusiastic celebration, with Hindus across the state lighting up the festival despite opposition from the Dravidian Kazhagam (DK) and restrictions imposed by the ruling DMK government. While the government urged people to limit firecracker use to a two-hour window and promoted eco-friendly celebrations, the state saw a remarkable surge in firecracker sales and festivities, especially in key districts like Sivakasi, the hub of India’s fireworks industry.

The Dravidian Kazhagam, led by K Veeramani, issued statements questioning the historical and cultural roots of Deebavali, suggesting it was a product of “cultural invasion.“ The DK argued that Deebavali did not appear in Tamil Nadu’s traditions until the 13th century, asserting that the festival is based on fabricated legends brought in by Aryan influence. Veeramani’s message encouraged people to “re-evaluate” the festival’s origins and refrain from celebrations.

In addition to these calls, the Tamil Nadu government also set unreasonable limitations. In adherence to a 2018 Supreme Court ruling, the government restricted firecracker bursting to two one-hour periods: between 6 AM and 7 AM, and 7 PM and 8 PM. It also mandated using green crackers and warned against bursting crackers near sensitive areas such as hospitals. A government release added a plea to celebrate in an “environment-friendly” manner.

Yet, reports from across Tamil Nadu indicate that people celebrated Deebavali with great fervor, bypassing the limitations and spending more on crackers than in previous years. In Sivakasi, home to most of India’s firework manufacturers, sales soared, totaling over ₹6,000 crore, a 5% to 7% increase from last year. According to T Kannan, General Secretary of the Indian Fireworks Manufacturers Association (TIFMA), demand for aerial fireworks was particularly high, as people embraced the traditional spirit of Deebavali despite rising raw material costs and restrictions on certain firecracker types.

However, cracker shop owners and traders across the state reported mixed results, with some temporary sellers noting unsold stock due to delays in license issuance and restricted selling times. As reported in TNIE, Alagu Raj, a retailer in Meesalur, noted that while sales were strong, economic factors played a role. He observed that people were spending less than last year since Deebavali fell on the last day of the month. He added that purchases were generally more cautious than in previous years.

The celebration, however, stood as a clear testament to the enduring popularity of Deebavali among Tamil Nadu’s Hindu population. Many embraced traditional rituals, ignoring the cultural debates and restrictions, and showcased a festive spirit marked by family gatherings, prayers, and vibrant fireworks displays.

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